Showing posts with label Wanton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wanton. Show all posts

Monday, February 2, 2026

Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) @ Paragon - Toss to a Prosperous Lunar New Year to Usher in The Year of The Horse

IMG_1507

Gather friends and family to toss to a prosperous Lunar New Year at Din Tai Fung with their festive range of Yu Sheng. We visited the Paragon outlet with the family for an early celebration.

IMG_1500

IMG_1522
Abundance Abalone Yu Sheng 4.2/5

Thoughtfully offered in three assortments, diners can choose from the Prosperity Smoked Salmon Yu Sheng, Abundance Abalone Yu Sheng and Vegetarian Prosperity Yu Sheng, catering to different preferences. Additional toppings, such as Fried Salmon Skin, are also available for extra indulgence.

The Abundance Abalone Yu Sheng won the hearts of my dining companions for how clean and refreshing it tasted, while studded with Fried Salmon Skin and Smoked Salmon Slices. We particularly appreciated the addition of fried yam strips, which provided a strong textural contrast. The plum dressing was mildly sweetened, just the way we like it.

IMG_1728

Each Yu Sheng platter ordered includes a limited-edition Din Tai Fung red packet and an adorable mascot coin pouch. From 23 Jan to 3 Mar 2026, diners can enjoy:

● 10% off any 1 Yu Sheng or 15% off any 2 Yu Sheng (DBS/POSB Cardholders)

● An $8 Din Tai Fung e-voucher for your next visit, with the purchase of any Yu Sheng via the BreadTalk Group Rewards App

*Note: Promotions are available for dine-in and takeaway at all Din Tai Fung restaurants except Novena Square Mall, while stocks last.

IMG_1528

IMG_1534
Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing 4/5

After a prosperous toss, we moved on to Din Tai Fung’s classic, comforting dishes, starting with the Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing, which remains a crowd-favourite starter. Served chilled, it is refreshing with pleasant, tangy notes that awaken the palate.

IMG_1546
Deep Fried Handmade Tofu with Lotus Roots & Mushrooms 4/5

It was our first time trying this Chef’s Special - the Deep Fried Handmade Tofu with Lotus Roots & Mushrooms, and we were pleasantly surprised. The tofu had a thin, crisp exterior while remaining soft inside, with added texture from the lotus roots and mushroom bits.

IMG_1529

IMG_1539
Crispy Golden Prawn Pancake 4/5

Fried to a beautiful golden-brown, the Crispy Golden Prawn Pancake is another side perfect for sharing. It’s thin yet filled with juicy prawn chunks.

IMG_1577
Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao 4/5

The Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao is a staple you’ll spot on almost every table. Each dumpling comes with delicate skin encasing tender pork and a good amount of savoury broth. Beyond this signature flavour, there are other variations, including Steamed Crab Meat & Pork, Chicken, Shrimp & Pork, Truffle & Pork, Vegetarian, and more.

IMG_1571

IMG_1583
Fried Rice with Pork Chop & Eggs 4/5

Similarly iconic is the Fried Rice with Pork Chop & Eggs. We appreciate how consistent the quality is across outlets, delivering a fragrant, well-fried plate every time. Enjoy it plain or topped with shrimp, shredded pork, truffles, or a hearty pork chop.

IMG_1548

IMG_1560
Noodle with Vegetable & Pork Wantons in Peanut Sesame Sauce 4/5

For noodles, we opted for the Noodle with Vegetable & Pork Wantons in Peanut Sesame Sauce. The noodles were cooked perfectly with a bite and carried the fragrant, nutty sauce well. There’s a light kick of heat in this, but not too spicy. You can also order this with Shrimp & Pork Wantons.

IMG_1599

IMG_1602
Steamed Strawberry Mochi Xiao Long Bao 2/5

Joining the menu from 1 Feb 2026 is the Steamed Strawberry Mochi Xiao Long Bao. Served fresh off the steamer, it features a mochi exterior with a strawberry filling made from Korean strawberries. We would prefer the skin to be thinner and softer for a more balanced bite.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Paragon Shopping Centre
#B1 - 03
290 Orchard Road
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6836 8336
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 9.15pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time is about 12 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, December 7, 2025

Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺) @ Clementi Ave 3 - Bringing Its Signature Handmade Dumplings to the West

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-21

Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺) expands its footprint to Clementi, bringing its well-loved handmade dumplings closer to Westies seeking hearty, comforting bites. Known for its generous fillings and time-honoured craftsmanship, the brand continues to deliver the same nostalgic flavours that have won over generations.

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-12

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-15
Shrimp and Vegetable Pork Dumpling 4/5

We started with the Shrimp and Vegetable Pork Dumpling ($9.80), which comes with 10 plump pieces. Each dumpling boasts a juicy filling encased in a dough that strikes a good balance — not too thick, yet with enough bite to hold everything together. The dumplings are tossed in the restaurant’s so-called viral mixed sauce with chilli oil and served over a bed of bean sprouts. Nutty, mildly spicy and aromatic, the sauce adds a lively lift without overpowering the dumplings.

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-24
Shrimp and Crab Roe Pork Wanton 4.2/5

We also tried the soup option with the Shrimp and Crab Roe Pork Wanton ($10.80). The Cantonese-style broth is light yet comforting, pairing well with the silky wantons. Compared to the dry version, this bowl leans more towards heartwarming simplicity, which some diners may prefer.

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-30
Fresh Corn Juice 3/5

An interesting item on the drinks menu caught my eye — the Fresh Corn Juice ($3.80), served hot. It’s lighter and less sweet than expected, though the distinct corn flavour comes through. While not particularly indulgent, it’s a quirky alternative for those curious to try something different.

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-5

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-28
Noodles with Fried Bean and Meat Sauce

Worried that the dumplings alone might not be filling, we added on the Noodles with Fried Bean and Meat Sauce ($5.50). The noodles have a pleasant chew and pair well with the marinated mixture of fried bean and meat. Reminiscent of Zha Jiang Mian, this bowl offers simple, savoury satisfaction.

YuenKeeDumplingClementi-2

With its new Clementi outlet, Yuen Kee Dumpling offers Westies better access to its familiar handmade dumplings and noodles. While the menu remains simple, the comforting flavours and reasonable pricing make it a dependable spot for a satisfying meal in the neighbourhood.


Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺)
Blk 446 Clementi Ave 3
#01-195
Singapore 120446
Tel: +65 89319588
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clementi Mall. Exit the mall and walk to Block 448 Clementi Market and Food Centre. Continue walking past the food centre to block 446. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes.[Map]


Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) @ Paragon - Ring in the Christmas Holidays with Din Tai Fung’s Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun

IMG_5524

Din Tai Fung’s festive favourite, the Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun, makes its long-awaited return this holiday season.

IMG_5456

Available at all outlets islandwide from 1 November to 31 December 2025, this sweet treat is back to spread some chocolatey cheer.

IMG_5515

IMG_5539
Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun 4/5

The Steamed Lola Lava Chocolate Bun ($4/piece, $11.40/3 pieces) features a soft, pillowy bun encasing a molten chocolate centre that oozes with every bite. It’s rich yet balanced in sweetness, without being cloying.

IMG_5498
Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing 4/5

Beyond the festive offering, we also had a few of Din Tai Fung’s classic dishes. The Oriental Salad in Special Vinegar Dressing is always our go-to starter, being refreshing, tangy and savoury all at once. It’s a good sharing starter.

IMG_5501
Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao 4/5

No visit to Din Tai Fung is complete without the crowd favourite Steamed Pork Xiao Long Bao. Each delicate ‘bao’ features thin skin that holds tender, juicy pork and a burst of well-seasoned broth.

IMG_5512

IMG_5513
Steamed Chilli Crab & Pork Buns 3.8/5

The Steamed Chilli Crab & Pork Buns were fluffy and served piping hot. Though we wished for a bit more filling, the blend of savoury pork and mildly spicy chilli crab sauce made for a fun, locally inspired twist

IMG_5489
Oriental Wantons with Black Vinegar & Chilli Oil 3.8/5

The Oriental Wantons with Black Vinegar & Chilli Oil were decent, with a pork filling and tossed in an appetising vinegar and chilli oil mix.

IMG_5477

IMG_5482
Noodle with Spicy Sauce 3.8/5

While the Noodle with Spicy Sauce had addictive spice, we wished it came with more ingredients to pair with it.

IMG_5469

IMG_5471
Fried Rice with Pork Chop & Eggs 4/5

The diners from our neighbouring table ordered a plate of fried rice each, and it’s a testament to how popular Din Tai Fung’s Fried Rice is. We like how it is always consistently seasoned, fragrant and well-fried. Our favourite rendition is with their hearty pork chop, but you can also opt for it plain, with shrimps, shredded pork, and even truffles.

IMG_5528
Dry Noodles Tossed in Scallion Oil with Shredded Pork 4/5

It was our first time trying the Dry Noodles Tossed in Scallion Oil with Shredded Pork, and we became new fans. The springy noodles were well-coated in aromatic scallion oil and topped with shredded pork.

IMG_5491
Beverages

For beverages, we tried the Earl Grey Ice Lemon Tea and the new Four Seasons Tea with Peach Gum. Both were surprisingly tasty, albeit a little too sweet.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Paragon Shopping Centre
#B1 - 03
290 Orchard Road
Singapore 238859
Tel: +65 6836 8336
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 9.15pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Monday, September 8, 2025

Issho Izakaya @ Marina One - Second Outlet with Lunch & Dinner Omakase Experiences from $68

IMG_7103(1)

IMG_7054

Issho Izakaya has recently opened its second outlet at Marina One. In addition to their standard menu, this new outlet offers lunch and dinner omakase experiences, starting from $68, with options ranging from 8 to 11 courses.

IMG_7057
Bonito Walnut

IMG_7068
Homemade Tofu

We tried the 11+ course dinner omakase ($128), beginning with a trio of appetisers. The Bonito Walnut was crunchy and addictive with deep umami notes. The Homemade Tofu had a light, creamy mouthfeel, subtly flavoured with an aromatic corn sauce, which could have been less starchy.

IMG_7072
Horse Mackerel with Seaweed Somen

The Horse Mackerel with Seaweed Somen brought an intriguing contrast of savoury crunch and briny strands of “seaweed noodles.” A touch of vinegar helped balance the brininess.

IMG_7082
Sashimi 5/5

The Sashimi course was a highlight, featuring five indulgent belly cuts: Toro, Kanpachi Belly, Tai Belly, Kajiki Belly, and Salmon Belly, each unctuous with a lingering fullness.

IMG_7094
Prawn Wanton in Black Vinegar 2.5/5

A local fusion touch came next with Prawn Wanton in Black Vinegar, reminiscent of chilli oil dumplings. The flavours were familiar and enjoyable, but the thick, slightly stiff wanton skin and the lack of a juicy filling were a letdown.

IMG_7102
Tai 4.5/5

The Grilled Tai course delighted with its tender, flaky flesh and beautifully crispy scales. A squeeze of Japanese lime added a refreshing citrus lift.

IMG_7111
Chilli Crab 4.5/5

Fusion continued into the Agemono course with their take on Chilli Crab, featuring fried soft-shell crab served alongside housemade chilli sauce and toast. The batter was light and airy, keeping the crab succulent. The sauce struck a delicate balance of sweetness and heat, making this dish a pleasant surprise.

IMG_7120
Miyazaki A5 with Foie Gras Miso 3.5/5

The Miyazaki A5 with Foie Gras Miso followed. The desired beef flavour was there, but the texture and mouthfeel were slightly drier than expected. The accompanying grilled vegetables were full of flavour, and what I also loved about the dish was the savoury miso served at the side, which was infused with a subtle hint of foie gras funk that enhanced the flavour of the beef up a notch.

IMG_7130
Cheese Kani 2.8/5

Instead of the usual temaki and rice course, we were served Cheese Kani and Beef Noodle with Clam Soup. The Cheese Kani, layered with gooey cheese, macaroni, and ikura, leaned indulgent but heavy, overshadowing the natural sweetness of the crab.

IMG_7145
Beef Noodle 3.5/5

The Beef Noodle, a local interpretation of Japanese ingredients, was tasty, though a touch of grated yuzu zest could have brightened the richness and tied it more seamlessly to the overall theme. I reckon a less saucier Rice course would have given a much more cohesive flow of the omakase experience. The accompanying clam soup, while pleasant, could have carried more depth.

IMG_7159
Dessert

Dessert was simple yet satisfying with sweet and juicy melon.

The fusion take on the omakase was refreshing and delivered a few standout dishes. That said, a stronger emphasis on seasonal ingredients, a more defined progression of courses, and greater refinement in execution would have elevated the experience into something truly memorable.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Issho Izakaya
Marina One Show Gallery
West Tower
5 Straits View
#01-14
Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 6592 8876
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Shenton Way (TE Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line), Downtown (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am – 3pm, 530pm – 10pm
Sat-Sun & PH: 11am – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 1 or 5. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station, Take Exit 1. Walk to Marina Way. Cross the road and walk to destination. [Map]

3) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit D or E. Walk to Straits View Road. Walk down Straits View Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]